1997 Ford Ka vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ka would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 357 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 835 kg more than 1997 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Lexus IS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Ka, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Lexus IS (502 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 397 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Ka | 2012 Lexus IS | |
Make | Ford | Lexus |
Model | Ka | IS |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 5000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 416 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 502 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1715 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4661 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1415 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2731 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 64 L |